Do You Really Need To Read Leadership Books?

The answer is yes.

And, fortunately, there are lots out there to select from. However, if you don't have time to read books about how to be an effective and good leader, you can select a few words from the list below and then practice what those words mean, as you lead your team every day.

Leaders on the LinkedIn Executive Suite group came up with these nearly 50 words in answer to a discussion topic I posted in the group forum: "A Good Leader Is [insert one word]." A big thank you to that group for this valuable list.

Accountable
Adaptable
Approachable
Authentic
Aware
Bold
Brave
Candid
Caring
Clear
Challenging
Charismatic
Compassionate
Courageous
Credible
Decisive
Dedicated
Ethical
Empowering
Engaged
Fearless
Forward-Thinking
Gracious
Honest
Humble
Inclusive
Influential
Inspiring
Intuitive
Loyal
Mindful
Moral
Motivating
Objective
Open
Passionate
Pro-active
Receptive
Responsible
Respectful
Skilled
Smart
Steady
Strategic
Thought-Provoking
Tireless
Transparent
Trustworthy

Comments

Fernando JusinoAugust 12, 2010 at 11:37 AM
Great post Eric. I feel like printing this and posing it on our department's Bulletin Board (is it OK if I do?). I am amidst reading leadership books, but if I didn't have the time, this list would indeed be perfect!
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Eric JacobsonAugust 12, 2010 at 8:08 PM
Fernado,

Glad you liked the post. You certainly may post the list on your Bulletin Board.

I really like this list. It's powerful in its message!
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Tiim KrupaAugust 14, 2010 at 1:14 AM
"You are the person you will be except for the people you meet and the books you read." ~Zig Ziglar.

I would paraphrase and say, "You are the leader you will be except for the people you meet and the books you read." Tim Krupa
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